Beth Stellema

When looking back on the overflowing life and legacy of Beth Stellema, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and unconditional love for her family. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others, and she was known for her independence and determination. Nothing brought Beth more joy than spending time with her loved ones, no matter how simple or brief the moment. Her primary focus in life was fostering deep and personal relationships with those around her. Dearly missed, Beth will be forever loved by all who knew her.

The late 1950s are remembered as a decade of great change in the United States. The civil rights movement was in full swing, bringing with it promises of a brighter future for many, and the country was also experiencing an economic boom and many advancements that made everyday life just a little bit easier. It was during this exciting time that Beth made her entrance into the world. Born May 21, 1959, Beth was adopted by Gerald John Keulen and Betty Ann Jelsma of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Growing up, Beth was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home in Grand Rapids alongside her brother, Mark. Beth’s father, Gerald, owned his own print shop and worked to support the family while her mother, Betty Ann, was a homemaker and ran a meticulously organized house. Holidays were spent with family. Every summer, they would visit their cottage on Long Lake in Traverse City, the backdrop for many priceless memories. Beth loved being outdoors at that cottage.

Throughout her childhood, Beth attended local schools. She discovered a love and talent for crocheting, and she enjoyed fishing. Beth and her family were members of Seventh Reformed Church. She attended Grand Rapids Christian High School. During these years, Beth had to overcome many challenges, including the devastating loss of her close friend. Still, she came out on the other side a stronger person and graduated from high school against all odds.

Exciting changes were on the horizon for Beth as she met the man who would forever hold the keys to her heart. His name was Steve Stellema, and the two first met as coworkers at the Grand Rapids Printing Company. There was an instant spark between Beth and Steve. Over time, their relationship blossomed as they fell deeper and deeper in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Beth and Steve were married in 1978, blending their families. The newlyweds then enjoyed a weekend getaway before settling down in an apartment on Jeanette.

Beth treasured her family above all else in life. She was overjoyed to become a mother to her beloved children, and she strove to be the best example and caretaker she could. Beth was a very supportive mother. The Stellema family often enjoyed going to Mr. Burger, one of their favorite restaurants, and they also spent many summers in Traverse City, staying at the same cottage Beth frequently visited growing up. Beth and Steve both worked at her father’s print shop for a living. When their children were older, Beth also became a lunch lady at Union High School. Later in life, she was thrilled to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother. Beth adored her grandchildren and doted on them whenever she could. She always considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Never one to sit still for long, Beth pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She loved to talk with her best friend, Celeste, of 47 years. Beth enjoyed baking, especially her famous banana bread. She and Steve would often share the kitchen. Beth liked listening to Southern Gospel music such as the Gaithers, as well as the Celtic Women. Her favorite memories were of spending time with family and friends. Beth could be independent and stubborn, but she was also very generous and would open her arms to welcome anyone and everyone.

As family and friends will surely agree, Beth Stellema truly understood the secret to living each day to the very fullest. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. A dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Beth was a friend to many and beloved by all. Her selfless heart allowed her to impact the lives of countless others, and she was a shining example of kindness and charity. Though she will be deeply missed, Beth leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Beth Stellema, aged 65, of Grand Rapids passed away on December 23, 2024. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 39 years, Steve and great-grandchild Malachi. She is survived by her children, Becky (Jason) Snider, Craig (Sara) Stellema, Tom (Ashley) Stellema, Kerri (Nick) Patterson, Michael Stellema and Gary Stellema; grandchildren, Devin, Sabrina, Michelle (Brock), Stephen, Stone, Pandora, Susan (John), Kaylie, Lexi, Aubrey, Caiden, Charlotte, Hailey, Brody, Evelyn, Aurianna, Benjamin, and Grayson; and great-grandchildren, Darrel, Mike, Lillian, Liam, Nevaeh, Weston, Jackson, Maeve, Mallory, and Rayne.

Per Beth's wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to visit on January 3, 2025 from 5-7 PM for a memorial open house at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home (2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504).

To post a memory, photo, or sign Beth’s guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com.